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AAAS Resolution:
RU 486 and Freedom of Medical Research
Whereas RU 486, a major new drug, is both an anti-glucocorticoid and anti-progesterone steroid that has many potential benefits for society; and
Whereas RU 486 is an effective treatment for Cushings's Syndrome; it has shown effective activity in the treatment of some types of breast cancer; it has been used in France as a safe, effective method for the termination of early pregnancy; and there is suggestive activity for its value in the treatment of endometriosis and difficult deliveries; and
Whereas a hostile political climate has discouraged Roussel Uclaf, the French manufacturer of RU 486, from seeking a license to market the compound in the United States; and
Whereas the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has imposed an import alert on RU 486; and
Whereas AAAS is committed to freedom of scientific inquiry and the advancement of modern technology;
Therefore be it resolved that AAAS encourages pharmaceutical companies and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to make RU 486 and related agents available for further research and use as medically indicated. [Adopted by the AAAS Council, February 18, 1991.]
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